Baby weight gain parameters as predictive factors for progression of retinopathy of prematurity

To study whether postnatal weight gain pattern can be a predictor of severe ROP.We conducted a prospective observational studyBirth weight and weight gain was recorded at 2 weeks,4 weeks and 6 weeks for all premature babies undergoing screening for ROP in our ROP clinic and NICU. The weight gain data was collected for those who developed any grade of ROP-these babies were followed up for spontaneous regression or given laser treatment for Type 1 ROP.Type 1 ROP which required treatment was termed as Severe ROP.The weight gain parameters analysed were absolute weight gain at 2,4 and 6 weeks and weight gain proportionWe included 94 babies were included in the study. Out of 94, in 73 babies spontaneous ROP regressed was noted and 21 developed severe ROP. Mean birth weight in treated babies and non-treated babies were 909.29 ± 210.88 grams and 1107 ± 375.00 grams respectively. Absolute weight at 2,4 and 6 weeks were significantly low in severe ROP. Weight gain proportion at completed 2,4,6 weeks of life showed that at 4 weeks it was significantly (p 0.025) low in severe ROP. Weight gain per week at 4 and 6 weeks was low in Type I ROP babies (P 0.006 and 0.016 respectively)In conclusion, this study found that postnatal weight gain is a significant factor that can predict the progression of ROP and those babies having a lower weight gain proportion in first 6 weeks should be followed up very closely for ROP progression.